Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking

1. Why Critical Thinking?

   • The Problem
     • People think it is natural to think critically
       • Critical thinking (excellence in thought) is built through hard work
         • Must be systematically cultivated
   • Definition
     • Analyzing
     • Evaluating
       • Thinking with view to improve.
   • Result
     • Makes vital questions
       • Well assesses information
         • Well reasoned conclusions
           • Open-minded
             • Communicates effectively

2. Checklist For Reasoning

   • Reasoning is based on assumptions
   • Reasoning is done from a certain point of view
   • Reasoning is based on solid evidence
   • Infer and Interpret to give meaning and value to data
   • Reasoning has a purpose
   • Reasoning is shown in concepts and maps
   • All reasoning leads to a consequence or has an effect
   • Reasoning is done with a goal of solving questions

3. Questions Using the Element of Thought

   • Purpose
     • What am I going to accomplish?
   • Information
     • What information am I using? (Backed with evidence?)
   • Assumptions
     • What am I leaving out? How did I conclude this?
   • Inferences/Conclusions
     • How did I conclude this?
   • Point of View
     • From what point of view am I making these statements?
   • Concepts
     • What is the main concept (idea)?
   • Implications/Consequences
     • What effects will I bring? What am I implying?
   • Questions
     • What question am I making?

4. The Problem of Egocentric Thinking

   • Problem initiates with humans naturally not thinking about others needs and thoughts first or even consider them.
     • With this, they egocentrically go though the processes mentioned earlier coming to an egocentric conclusion with an egocentric consequence
       • This making the critical thinking flawed and inaccurate and cannot correctly be categorized as "CRITICAL THINKING"

5. References

   • Paul, R., Elder,L. (2007). The miniature guide to Critikal Thinking. Concepts and tools. [PDF]